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This was it. Zachary was ready and excited to take part in his first-ever gym battle-- or rather gym challenge. Zachary had every intent, even with his dreams to be a gym leader himself, to rise the ranks and gather the badges he needed. But more than that, Zachary also learned gyms had the right to give unique challenges, not just battles. His friend Josh, a Gym Leader in his own right, was one to bring this to his attention. They had a practice battle, more to evaluate Zachary if he would be a good GYm Leader or not. That aside, the real challenge was now! [break][break] Zachary was now outside, seeing the wide terrain that Josh technically owned as a Gym Leader. He knew his friend was a racing fanatic and loved to ride on all kinds of Pokemon. Zachary had few Pokemon he could possibly ride on, but after his time on his Milotic, and some of Josh's Pokemon, he was starting to love the idea of riding a Pokemon. Shame not many psychic types were 'mountable'. [break][break] Zachary was there now waiting at the track. His other Pokemon were out-- but not the one he intended to use. Dizzy the Delphox, Tarot the Kadabra, Happy the Mime Jr, Prophet the Xatu, and last but not least-- Morgana the Sprigatito. They were to act as spectators up in the stands, along with anyone else there to witness the gym challenge. [break][break] Zachary held the Pokemon he intended to use in his hand, the Pokeball marked now with a mysterious "VII" on it. A sign of Zachary's association to the psychic mystery of the Tarot. The Chariot designation certainly fit THIS specific Pokemon. [break][break] As Josh joined him, Zachary smiled confidently at him. Despite how their battle went, Zachary felt secure in his intent to show his worth-- and claim the Quick Badge as his own. [break][break] "Alright, Josh! Time for us to finally do that race you wanted so badly!" Zachary said as he tossed the Pokeball up, only to snatch it back from the air. [break][break] Holding the ball, he soon tossed it high overhead. "Come on out-- HERMES!!" Zachary shouted, causing the Pokeball to snap open and light to appear. [break][break][break][break] Zachary watched as Raichu emerged, already on his floating tail as he greeted everyone with a roudy "RAI!" as if announcing he was here and expecting applause already. [break][break] Josh would recognize Raichu without a shadow of a doubt-- the same one that faced and struggled to catch back on the water routes on the way to Mawville City. It was quite the adventure as Raichu ran amok on the coast, causing problems for other Pokemon. Having mellowed out a bit, and now under Zachary's care, he was far better mannered-- or so they hoped. Even now, he was still a little bit... cocky. Boastful. [break][break] As the unusually large Raichu floated there with his chest puffed out, Zachary turned to Josh. "I choose Raichu to be my racing partner... if I know how I am gonna exactly ride him though," Zachary said as he looked over Raichu. [break][break] The very sound of 'race' , made Raichu very happy! With a flip-kick of his tail, he did a flip in the air, already sparking with excitement to have a race! This little guy just LOVED to go fast! [break][break] Still, Zachary was baffled. Despite the Raichu being rather larger than most, even almost as tall as a human person, he didn't see it feasible to ride on Raichu's back. "How am I going to ride with Hermes anyway?" Zachary asked. [break][break] Realizing the challenge, Hermes soon smirked and raised his paw as he floated on his large tail. Suddenly via his psychic power-- he took hold of Zachary! [break][break] "Whoh--!!" Zachary cried, lifted up by the Raichu's psychic power. The clever mouse moved Zachary closer and soon over Raichu's tail. Zachary's feet touched the tail's broad narrow surface, feeling a bit of a tight fit to stand on. However as he floated there, Raichu soon barked out more-- reaching its arm behind him to tell Zachary to touch his back! [break][break] Puzzled, but giving it a try, Zachary placed his left hand on Raichu's back while still lifted by the Psychic glow. [break][break] In that moment, the Psychic aura that kept Raichu afloat, also held Zachary too. it no longer felt odd as Zachary felt more 'secure' as he held on to Raichu's back, like momentum was no longer a concern! "Wow... this is so odd. It's like feeling a harness attached to my back keeping me close to Raichu on his tail. I don't feel like I'd fall here." Zachary explained as he rode with Raichu on his tail. [break][break] Giddy, Raichu tested it by circling small rounds around Josh and the other Pokemon. [break][break]

Josh Devlin

NOTES

✦ Gym Challenge -- Quick Badge Attempt.[break]
✦ Zachary's choice for the race is Alola Raichu. Raichu uses Psychic to keep Zachary secure on his tail and not fall off. [break]
✦ His other pokemon will spectate.

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The Mime Jr made every attempt to finish it-- but was struck down by a powerful blow, hitting its weakness again! Happy was sent flying with a cry and tumbled to the ground. It didn't move as the winner was announced as Aaron. Zachary was stunned for a couple seconds, motionless-- but soon shook it off and quickly got to his little friend. [break][break] Zachary quickly knelt down and scooped up his Mime Jr. "Happy, you okay? I'm sorry... " Zachary said, a tear escaping his eye for letting his partner down. Despite the loss, the Mime Jr opened his eyes and gave a kind smile up to Zachary. Eager to help it, Zachary took out one of his potions and sprayed lightly along the Mime Jr,'s body, giving it enough comfort till he could get it back to the Pokemon Center. [break][break] Losing a battle, Zachary felt he was just as at fault of not more for any pokemon loss-- not the pokemon. He did all he could and even did his best with Mime Jr-- his opponent however was just too strong. "You did a good job, buddy. Thank you," he said as he took out his Pokeball, and recalled his Mime Jr. Happy vanished into its light, hopefully being more comfortable inside the ball. [break][break] Zachary saw Aaron approach, figuring he was going to rub the victory in his face or something. However-- instead he shoved his phone in his face instead. "Excuse me, personal space! You can be a bit rude, you know that?" Zachary said, a touch too defensively. However he soon heard his request to trade info. The fact the crowd cheered for them both, did ease Zachary's more defensive concerns. He blinked at the contact, and slowly took out his Poketek to beam the info on it. With a beep, both their data was transferred. [break][break] Zachary had lost. It was his first official match with another person.. even if he had trained and studied on his own before now. Aaron seemed very straight forward, and didn't want pleasantries. It came off like he was cold and uncaring. Despite that, he did seem to want to reach out. "Hey!"Zachary called as Aaron would start to walk away after exchanging info. [break][break] When Aaron would see-- Zachary had a hand extended, offering a handshake. Despite a determined look on his face, Zachary had every intention to be a good sport having lost and learned. "Good game, okay?" Zachary offered, wanting to leave things off on a good note. If this guy wanted a rematch, wanted to meet again... well that certainly wasn't so bad? Zachary felt it too. This guy was a challenging rival. But... one thing Zachary always hoped, was to make new friends. [break][break] So he waited to see if he would accept the handshake.

Aaron Toral

NOTES

✦ Happy is unable to battle. Aaron wins [break]
✦ Zachary exchanges contact info with Aaron & offers to shake hands. [break]
✦ Personal Metronome Rules: A die is rolled and Metronome's effect will be determined by the following. Odd numbers indicate a status-move, even numbers indicate an attack move. 1-33 , will be a weak move, 34-66 will have power between (50-70) , 67 -100 will be 80+ attack power. Type is free to choose for the user. Depending on player cooperation, a lower power move may be selected if the roll is higher.

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The discharge had reached wide-- Dizzy had little damage but only cause he had Clear Mind going. It went overhead for Happy and Prophet was far away-- as was the other pokemon. Josh and his Sharpedo however took a direct hit! They were soon on the ground hurt. [break][break] THAT was the last straw! Bad enough it was recklessly hurting pokemon, now humans too?! This little guy had to be stopped! Dizzy growled, fully agreeing to that comment. "That's it Raichu! Time to put the breaks on you!" he shouted. [break][break] Acting like a tough guy, Raichu just barked in a boastful tone. [break][break] "Dizzy-- use Flamethrower! Happy, use Light Screen!" he shouted. [break][break] Following his trainer's lead, Dizzy jumped up front and inhaled sharply. With a howl, he sent a flamethrower out, attempting to catch the rodent in his blaze. [break][break] Happy had erected a barrier of Lightscreen-- a sheen of rainbow light to give some protection, but it wasn't going to stop Raichu long enough! [break][break] As the flame started to come, Raichu glowed-- and suddenly became a blur. [break][break] It had used AGILITY again! This time, it was using speed to easily levitate around the place. Now at blinding speeds, it dashed all over the place, popping up one place, vanishing and appearing in the next. [break][break] Zachary, Dizzy and the others looked around, trying to catch sight of the zippy rodent. "Darn it! It's going too fast!" Zachary cried out. [break][break] Happy's head was moving around to try and find it but it kept going away-- till suddenly Raichu was behind the Mime Jr with a mischievous look in his eye. [break][break] Zachary caught sight of it right in the corner of his eye above Happy. "Happy! Look out!" he cried. [break][break] However-- it was too late as Raichu gave a flip. A ball of electricity shined as it used ELECTRO BALL on the Mime Jr. [break][break] The flash of electricity and shock , even with Light Screen, delivered a powerful shock that sent Mime Jr flying backwards! The poor mime tumbled in the sand, stunned by the violent electric attack. [break][break] "Hey! Pick on someone your own size you big jerk!" Zachary shouted, not sure if it understood or not what it was doing was just mean! "Dizzy-- use Psychic!" [break][break] Dizzy's eyes glowed once more, intending now to use Psychic on Raichu himself, to restrict and throw the Electric mouse away. However... Raichu was also using Psychic the entire time-- and actively pushed back. IT became a game of 'tug of war' between the two psychic types, as sparks of energy crackled between them. [break][break] However-- then something came from behind! An orb of darkness-- a Shadow Ball! Raichu saw it--coming from the Xatu on the cliffside. Zachary's Xatu had joined the fight! [break][break] Sadly, it was not successful, as Raichu used his Agility and swept into high gear! In a flash-- Raichu was gone, zipped out using its great speed and caused the Shadow Ball to fly forward and erupt! The blast sent sand and shadow flying, hitting Dizzy with the recoil! [break][break] Zachary coughed as the sand flew, and everything on the beach was in chaos as Raichu zipped through the beach. It passed by the Delphox, Zachary, and even his other Pokemon recklessly-- before it took a sharp turn and flew through the air! [break][break] It hopped over Happy's Reflect wall-- and the moment it hit the water,--- it sped away at a break-neck speed! [break][break] It all happened in the span of 30 seconds, and Zachary looked absolutely dumbfounded. His best laid plans fell to pieces in the face of one hyperactive electric pokemon. He was stunned, as he looked around. "Is... Is everyone okay?" Zachary gasped, and coughed-- seeing how badly everyone was hurt. Luckily his pokemon were more stunned than injured, especially Happy who took a big hit. Zachary helped his Mime Jr back up, his head buried in the sand. [break][break] As Zachary soon got to Josh-- something was not right. [break][break] "Wait... is someone here missing?" he asked. Zachary looked around to take a headcount. Dizzy was there, of course, along with Happy who sat next to him. Prophet was up on the cliff... Cetus was resting on the shallow waters of the beach recovering. Calypso was there, knocked down by Raichu's escape, so was Josh--[break][break] "Um... Josh!" Zachary shouted, now his eyes wide with worry as he saw who was missing! "Have you seen my Sprigatito?!" he shouted. [break][break]

---

[break][break] Raichu was now in high speed, having properly given the slip to the humans and their pokemon. He beamed with impish pride as he boasted to himself. However-- then then heard something. [break][break] Mrrreeow...[break][break] Raichu heard the sound and looked around, but didn't see anything. Shaking it off, he continued to speed away from the island. [break][break] "Mree---mrrrow!" [break][break] Hearing it again, Raichu looked around as it rushed forward, unaware of the source of the cry. He then looked down-- and saw it. [break][break] Of all things, someone had clung on to his surfing-tail when he charged through the beach! Clinging just to the rim of his tail was none other than Morgana-- the Sprigatito kitten! The little cat slowly tried to claw his way up the tail while its hind legs hung from the back-- holding on as tight as it could. The cat had a disapproving look on its face as it got closer to getting on. [break][break] Raichu showed a vein along his forehead at the sight that the cat had jumped on! He barked back at him-- saying in a Raichu manner 'I DON'T TAKE CAT HITCHHIKERS!!' Now angry, the Raichu began to jump on his tail-- making it rock like a see-saw! [break][break] Morgana was tossed up and down, hanging on just by his little cat claws. Resilliant and stubborn, the grass cat continued to climb up. This little cat wasn't about to be picked on by an overgrown rat! As Morganna finally clawed up, Raichu tried to kick the cat off, but Morganna dug its claws into its tail to hold on. [break][break] "Mrreeeee--" Morganna growled, and suddenly glowed. "MRRREOOOOW!!!" [break][break] Morgana suddenly erupted from its mane a series of leaves-- shooting Leafage out at Raichu! [break][break] The swarm of a leaf attack, flew all around Raichu, getting on him as well as blinding his own vision as he now was flying blind. [break][break]

---

[break][break] Back on shore, Zachary was still worried as he couldn't find Sprigatito and losing the Raichu-- but soon as he was tending to Josh and the others-- they saw something odd. The spot where Raichu was flying-- was replaced by a big mass of green leaves that swarmed around something. It moved in jagged patterns, all over the water as if it was out of control. "What the MUCK is that...?!" he gasped, and soon seeing the leaves, knew it could only be one thing! "MORGANA?! How did he get out there?!" Zachary cried. [break][break] It was now clear to them that Morgana had hitched a ride onto Raichu, and thanks to the cat-- Raichu was flying out of control, blinded by the Leafage attack. [break][break] Josh could see the results too where he was.

Josh Devlin              

NOTES

✦ Social Thread.[break]

✦ A vicious battle takes place to catch Raichu, but Raichu outsmart them and uses Agility to evade their united attacks. [break]

✦ Raichu escapes -- but soon realizes Sprigatito grabbed on. As Raichu tries to get Morgana off-- he uses LEAFAGE to blind him. [break]

✦ The group witnesses as Raichu is out of control-- slowly zig-zagging back to shore, blinded by the grass pokemon attack [break]

✦XXX[break]

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Zachary's confidence dropped at Josh's either ignorance or assistance to continue. Abra was great-- at running away! While its evolutions were powerful and why Zachary wanted him so badly starting out, Abra was not strong enough. The only move that Abra knew at that stage was Teleport! As a combatant for a gym, he wasn't the ideal choice and Josh should have known that! Either way, he didn't wait! [break][break] The battle began as the Beedril was the first up. MORE GOOD NEWS!! Zachary couldn't contain his repulse as he stepped back, afraid of the Beedrill. THings just were getting bad to worse now with the Focus Energy going off! [break][break] Zachary turned to his Abra in the middle of the arena, just still as ever. "Tarot please, I'm begging you! Just move! Jump! Dodge-- anything!!" Zachary cried. [break][break] The Abra just hovered there, its head lightly bobbing as it seemed to nap right there, even with the loud buzzing of the incoming enemy! [break][break] Zachary slouched forward, disappointed. "I'm doomed..." he groaned.[break][break][break][break] Dizzy was behind Zachary with an equally reflective look of pity on his trainer. Wordlessly, the fox reached a paw to Zachary's shoulder and patted him as if to say 'there there'...[break][break] If Josh knew it, he was playing ignorant! Abra was a sitting duck! Further, he wasn't obeying ANY of Zachary's orders. [break][break] The Beedrill was going to attack without any resistance! [break][break]

Josh Devlin

NOTES

✦ Zachary cannot switch out pokemon .[break]

✦ Zachary orders Tarot to be on guard -- but fails as Abra is napping[break]

✦ Dizzy consoles Zachary by patting him on the shoulder. .[break]

✦XXX[break]

✦XXXX

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"Here it comes... Everyone get ready!" Zachary shouted to his team. Happy got ready up front, ready to do what it had to do. Dizzy was nearby, using Calm Mind to prepare. Xatu watched from above, but still out of the way. Calypso and Spriggatito were nearby, out of the way as Cetus watched it unfold from safety. [break][break] Zachary watched as Josh rode the Mega SHarpedo-- and keeping up with Raichu's speed. The raichu looked almost giddy with challenge as it rushed to catch up and cut off the SHarpedo. It continued to use Psychic to manipulate the waves-- soon jumping overhead of the Sharpedo and its rider! As Josh was thrown off by the Shark's wild movements, rolling onto the beach-- Raichu's wave soon came, crashing down upon the beach towards them all! [break][break] "Now! Happy, Reflector!" Zachary shouted. At his call, Raichu was airborne and Happy raised his arms. A near-invisible barrier appeared, this time reaching far wider around them. While it didn't stop Raichu's big-air jump, it stopped the waves from hitting them all! It also boxed in anyone from heading back into the water, making a 'wall'. [break][break] Raichu soon flew onto the sandy beach-- still levitating via its tail as it zipped along the beach, kicking up sand as it moved inward, spying the others. Happy soon turned, prompted to stop the Raichu. "Now, use Dazzling Gleam! " Zachary shouted, causing Happy to release a powerful glow of dazzling light. The move was more blinding than effective, flashing the Raichu with its brilliance. [break][break] "Dizzy! DO IT!!" Zachary cried, signaling them to spring the trap. [break][break] The Raichu continued to fly -- reaching the edge of the cliff, and to everyone's surprise, began to fly up the wall-- a vertical climb via its speed and momentum! It was like a skateboarder as well as a surfer! As the rodent began its descend, intending to ride into them--, Dizzy took action! [break][break] Dizzy's eyes glowed, using Psychic as he controlled the ground below as the rodent doubled back. The sand seemed to heave upward-- looking like a wave of its own, but soon as Raichu intended to ride over it-- the sand dispersed, revealing the green net of vines and seaweed! [break][break] "RAII!!" Raichu cried as it flew right into the net, tumbling as the net crumbled with him, tangling him inside it as Dizzy controlled it to fold it shut! The net and the contained Raichu crashed into the sand with a tumble. [break][break] Zachary got closer as Dizzy's psychokinesis ended, seeing Raichu tangled and trapped in the net! [break][break] A smile came to him! "WE GOT HIM! YES!!" Zachary cheered, causing his other Pokemon to get optimistic. Zachary smiled as he got closer, seeing the now grumpy Raichu with its arms crossed, trapped under the net. "Not so cocky now, are you?" Zachary said, making Dizzy also bark in a scolding gesture. [break][break] It would of ended there... but...[break][break] The Raichu then suddenly had a wicked gleam and smirk on its face! Sparks discharged from his cheeks as it began to growl. Having a bad feeling, Zachary took a step back, unsure what it was doing. "Raaaaaiiiiiiii---CHUUUUUUUUUUU!!!!" [break][break] THe electric/psychic hybrid suddenly released a very strong DISCHARGE move, sending lightning bolts scattering everywhere-- and tearing the net apart! The electric attack fried its bonds and it became undone, becoming charred and dried bits of leaves and foliage. [break][break] Raichu stood there, all the more cocky as if to say 'did you really think that would stop me?!'. Zachary lowered his arms from the flash and saw Raichu look even more fierce. "Um... maybe we go with plan B..." he said. [break][break] Dizzy gave an angry bark-- voicing "THERE IS NO PLAN B!!" in fox-talk. [break][break] Raring to go, the Raichu hopped into the air, flipped and once again was on its enlarged tail, hovering in the air. He wasn't even bothered if it was 3 against 1-- the rodent was that overconfident. [break][break]

Josh Devlin              

NOTES

✦ Social Thread.[break]

✦ Josh's efforts lure Raichu into the sandbar and beach-- where Happy uses Reflect to protect them from the tidal wave. [break]

✦ Dizzy uses CALM MIND & PSYCHIC and springs the trap with the net. [break]

✦ Raichu suddenly grins under the net-- and uses DISCHARGE to break free. Raichu is now eager to fight and still as fast as ever! [break]

✦XXX[break]

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Dizzy's smart thinking made the perfect bait to bring in the vain and egocentric Raichu to them. Of course, Josh was not willing to sit around and wait. So the impulsive GYm Leader took off on his Mega Sharpedo to prepare to face Raichu. Zachary looked glumly as he swam away, overly eager to clash with him. "Someone's eager," Zachary commented to Dizzy, causing the Fox to give a similar reaction and bark in agreement. [break][break] About 10 minutes passed-- and it was a waiting game for a bit. Josh was probably swimming around, while the others waited on the beach. Prophet was perched on the top of the nearby cliff acting like a 'lookout' with its large, unblinking eyes over the horizon. Meanwhile Calypso waited patiently, while Morganna the Sprigatito attempted to catch her swishing tail. Zachary kept an active eye out but didn't see anything. Dizzy's fire signal soon faded-- the picture and flame vanishing from view. [break][break] There was a moment of doubt-- till Xatu suddenly jumped alert. As if it was about to go to sleep-- its eyes snapped open and it started letting out loud caws, waving its big wings. Zachary looked up at him and then quinted for the distance. [break][break] It was subtle, but a small dot and swell could be seen on the horizon. It was similar to what they saw before! [break][break] To Xatu's sharp eyes-- with Miracle Eye the bird saw it-- the Raichu incoming riding on its psychic-generated wave as it floated in its airspace. [break][break] "It's here! " Zachary shouted to his Pokemon and to Josh. Zachary turned to the other water Pokemon who were waiting with them. "Okay guys! I need you to get out of here. Find somewhere safe around the island till things die down, okay?" he tried to say to them. Catching his meaning, majority began to swim away to find safer waters... [break][break] Out on the ocean, the Raichu got closer and closer-- a seemingly Nasty Plot already forming on its mischievous face. It had seen Dizzy's fiery challenge, and was now electrified! [break][break] It was too far off shore to do anything on Zachary's end, but Josh was more and able to take action if he wanted. "Josh! It's coming! Remember the plan! GET IT TO THE SHORE!" Zachary shouted as loud as he could to him. His other Pokemon stood ready, anticipating when to face the Raichu and into their trap! [break][break]

Josh Devlin              

NOTES

✦ Social Thread.[break]

✦ The Wild Pokemon and Zachary's all work together to make a trap.[break]

✦ After some waiting-- Raichu is spotted off the west horizon and speeding their way on a wave. [break]

✦ Raichu is all riled up from Dizzy's challenge and has Nasty Plot ready. [break]

✦Zachary shoutes to Josh to lure it to the shore! [break]

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Zachary looked in confusion as Leo spoke to the shadowy figure hidden in the cave. However-- the results of a stand off ended as a beam of SILVER LIGHT shot out of nowhere and hit the roof of the cave. It began to trigger a cave in, causing a rain of rocks and crystals! The cave began to shake, making Zachary stagger. Quick to protect Zachary, the Glaceon came over to him and held him upright. Dizzy was in no shape to run, knocked out cold from the attack earlier. Taking out his Pokeball, Zachary recalled Dizzy, returning the Delphox to his Pokeball. [break][break] Leo snarled at the cave in. "Coward!" he barked, tempted to give chase-- but the bark from Glaceon made him pause. He turned back, seeing Zachary there and knew his duties as a Ranger was more important than chasing and beating the Muck out of Team Rocket. Reluctantly, he turned back to help him. [break][break] " Hey, Kid! There must be some Pokemon you have that can get us out of here. I hear you run with some psychic types or something to get back?!" Leo called out over the raining debris. [break][break] Zachary snapped back to his senses, remembering his emergency Pokemon he kept on him! He quickly took out the ball that contained it and tossed it out. "Kirlia!" Zachary cried out. Kirlia soon appeared from the ball, with a soft cry, but alarmed by the emergency of falling rocks. Kirlia quickly ran over to Zachary, holding on to his hand. Seeing Glaceon, Kirlia too touched her, to take her too. "Come on! Hurry and give me your hand!" Zachary urged. [break][break] Leo avoided a chunk of rock with a roll and sprinted for the group. He got there and quickly gave a 'bro-shake' of his hand to grab Zachary's hand.[break][break] The moment they touched-- Kirlia took action and focused. It glowed, and so did their bodies. They felt light as air-- and suddenly were whisked away in a flicker of bright white light! [break][break] As quickly as the Rocket fled with his cold words, so too did Zachary and Leo use their pokemon to escape-- teleporting back to the camp! [break][break]

---

[break][break] Like before, Zachary felt reality stop as the whisk of teleport took them back to camp, right outside the complex. Kirlia let go, relieved that he acted in time. Zachary gave Kirlia a loving pat. "Thank you, Kirlia. I don't know what I'd do with you." he said, encouraging a cry of happiness from the pokemon. [break][break] Leo brushed off some dust from his coat as he patted his Glaceon, relieved she and all of them were safe. "Whoo! That was a close one. That teleport trick is really handy, buddy! But hey, listen there is no shame of turning back and retreating, okay? You gotta survive, and not be afraid to turn back when you have to. Alright? Can't always be there to save you!" he said in a chummy motion, followed by a wink. [break][break] Zachary felt a bit confused by him, but still nodded. "Thanks... for saving us," Zachary admitted, "I'll be more careful. I promise,[break][break] Leo smirked and extended his Poketec, sending a message to Zachary. "This is my contact. Feel free to reach out if you need anything or just to say hi. Hey, no need to be a stranger! " he said as he soon walked back to the camp. [break][break] Glaceon gave a soft sigh at his rather chummy behavior-- and soon followed her trainer. [break][break] Zachary was soon back at the camp, safe and sound... for now... [break][break] END.

Amor Rose

NOTES

✦ Make it Double MissionXXX.[break]

✦ Dizzy is defeated and is saved by Leo [break]

✦ Teleported and return to camp [break]


✦ XXX.

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Zachary took a similar route as he kept nearby, intending to help Aaron in his quest to explore more of that other dimension. The place to travel made things a bit more difficult, but he came prepared this time. He had pokemon more useful for not just combat, but also survival and versatility. He now flew in-- and Aaron would be able to see him. A large SIGILYPH that flew overhead and began its descent. It was as big as an braviary if not bigger, being the ancient guardian of a lost city that Zachary caught on a trek through the routes. As the wind blew and it lowered down, Zachary showed on its back, looking at Aaron. [break][break] "Hey, Aaron! How you doing?" Zachary greeted cheerfully. He hopped off Sigilyph's back-- to which he still had to name the big mysterious bird-psychic creature. He didn't really know how to identify the big bird, but it was one of his most amazing pokemon he had captured. He also had a few new ones with him that might be of help on this quest. [break][break] Dizzy was with him too, hopping off the SIGILYPH's Back. But most notably was that Arron would notice a creature on Zachary's shoulder. An adorable Hoothoot that clung there, being a pleasant companion for the boy. The Hoothoot gave a friendly coo towards Aaron, greeting him in a 'hoothoot' way. [break][break] His pokemon were different from what he had brought before-- feeling to keep Tarot, his Kadabra on a timeout for his somewhat grumpy behavior last time. His usual pokemon could use a break at the Berry Farm. It gave him a chance to try some new Pokemon, and give them the attention and growth they needed. [break][break] More so, the pokemon he choose had traits to help them survive the harsh environment. NOt that he'd go anywhere without Dizzy, his partner pokemon. [break][break] "Yeah. Let's go. Best we go in the same way we came. I didn't bring Tarot with me-- unless you want me to try teleporting us again to where we were..." Zachary said with impish jest-- recalling how Aaron didn't exactly react well to Kadabra's teleporting. He threw up after ward, which Zachary regretted but couldn't help but laugh a little at that. [break][break] With a flying Pokemon like Sigilyph, however, and some of the others, they shouldn't have a problem. He recalled Sigilyph, prepared to use him after they got to the other side of the portal-- and he still had one new Pokemon that could teleport just in case...

Aaron Toral

NOTES

✦ Expedition 2.[break]
✦ XXX.[break]
✦ XXX.

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The days that past were pure agony. He was humiliated, hurt, his brused bones-- if they were not broken, hurt more than he could stand. He was constant target whenever he struggled, by that stupid, muscle-headed dumb dog! His parents must of been worried, and maybe even thought him dead. He would of been... or might as well been with how he felt. If he had not had the care of Alexei Ivanov he would of been dead already. The days blured together of work, exhaustion and pain. Still, he would dream... he would dream of finding his pokemon. He would dream to helping his friends. He would dream of escaping this nightmare. [break][break] However, he became aware of one thing. He WAS in Area Zero! There was no other explanation for so many crystals, the foreign invaders-- they came from the dimensional breeches that went to other worlds. There was no other explanation. And good news-- with the League exploratory base, it meant there was a nearby place for rescue. It was that share fact in his mind that kept him alert and aware. Still, he had no clue where his Pokemon were. The situation still seemed bleak... His only peace, was the dream-- and it became his other reality. [break][break]

---

[break][break] Each time he went there, he had more control of himself-- lucid dreaming. Others had done it. He soon found his friends! Elise Calcifet , Josh Devlin , ever blackwell and Alexei Ivanov too! Everyone in the prison was part of this 'dreamscape' in the city, and there were others. People, and the pokemon in the tanks. [break][break] Zachary soon found all of them, suspended in the tanks. He was now near his Kadabra, Tarot. The poor Kadabra was still in the tank. Zachary pressed his hand against the tank, trying to reach him-- even in his thoughts but nothing stirred. Tears would fall from his eyes, feeling powerless. He felt so close to them there-- knowing this place was NOT just a dream. Yet he couldn't do anything to save them. [break][break] He would soon find the Azelf too-- having high regard for the legendary pokemon, but he too was trapped. Like praying to a deity, Zachary placed his hand to the vat that contained Azelf. "I... I want to keep going. I can't give up. Each day they try to break us. TO make us give up hope... but, I can't! I won't! I have to save my friends, I have to do something! Anything! Please. There has to be something I can do! I want to save you, and protect those that matter! Please! I refuse to be this weak! I won't!!" Zachary shouted. [break][break] However, in perfect timing-- or to just coincidence, he heard it. He heard the whisper in his head, almost so soft it felt like a fleeting bit of Zachary's own imagination. Azelf's instructions. They were going to break free! Azelf's broken but clear instructions were clear. Zachary committed it to memory, hearing the words, bottom, lake-- that they had to go deeper, not up and out! [break][break] He felt himself start to wake again, knowing the others heard it too. The flame of hope, that once was about to die began to burn again in his chest. He swore to himself, he would free his friends, both human and his pokemon! [break][break]

---

[break][break] That day, he didn't hesitate. He ate the whole Moochi, needing all the strength he could muster. It felt sickening to eat the whole thing, or maybe it was just his pride. Who cared. [break][break] For the moment, Zachary wondered if it was a dream and only a dream... till he saw the Terrastellar crystals start to shine brightly today. Something did feel different, even as he was urged to shove boxes, collect crystals and basically work like a mutt! [break][break] He then heard the sound! And the light-- the bright shine of power that soon illuminated the cavern! [break][break] The time was NOW![break][break][break][break][break][break] Zachary felt the shot of adreniline, energy and hope that surged through his mind, like when he had a creative idea. His very vision lit up-- and he soon felt that spark of hope become a wildfire in him. As he saw the chaos unfold, saw a glimmer! Something not from the Tera Crystals, but almost like a trail-- a winding path invisible otherwise. But he instinctively knew-- he knew it was a path that led to where he wanted to go! TO find the bottom, and to get there safely. [break][break] From those who saw him-- one would see through his mask-- his eyes now glowed a very odd blue hue, like stars shimmering in the sky! STARGAZER'S EYES![break][break] He took action and ran! "Hurry! Now's our chance!! Get to the meeting spot!!" Zachary shouted, trying to get the other prisoner's attention-- and not reveal to their captors where they were going! [break][break] Despite the pain, despite the weakness, Zachary ran, following the starry path in his eyes! It zig-zagged, seeming to be placed around where guards were-- until the butt-ugly Okidogi tried to bar Zachary's path! [break][break] Zachary saw the dog, and no longer afraid of another beating-- Zachary wanted to find a way past him. The starry path seemed to show him were to go-- in a daring dive between the dog's squatted legs. [break][break] With too little time to question, acting now on instinct and will-- Zachary dove forward! The Okidogi brought a powerful fist down-- but hit only dirt as Zachary shot forward and rolled under the dog's legs! He got back to his feet, fighting the pain in his sides, and continued to run for the end of the cavern! [break][break] With all the chaos of the guards, the light, and everything else-- Zachary's path was clear as he followed the mystical trail, showing him the lift that led them downward! He could see others start to gather there, having the same idea! [break][break] Zachary reached the lift to join the others. As he looked around, he saw similar colors-- similar lights around him, some made him feel anxious, while others showed opportunities, more so surrounding friends. He didn't understand what he was seeing, but he felt more safe now than he had in the past week. Whatever it was, these 'eyes' were showing him one thing for sure-- a way to freedom and to his loved ones! He would see ever blackwell , Josh Devlin , Alexei Ivanov and many others he knew in the chaos and waved to them. "Hurry! Over here! This way out!" he waved, trying to urge them away from the 'danger' he saw in his eyes. [break][break][break][break]

Alexei Ivanov

NOTES

✦ Seeing his Pokemon trapped in the dream and prays to Azelf to help them find a way out. He hears Azelf words, inspiring him not to give up hope! [break]
✦ Eats a whole Mew-Damn Moochi for energy.[break]
✦ As he works, he hears the cue and the sound of Terrastellization somewhere nearby and all hell breaks loose. [break]
✦ As the spark of hope rekindles-- Zachary's eyes glow with a psychic energy in the form of his "Toxic Chain" Ability -- Stargazer to see paths of safety towards his desired goals. It also lets him see glows that surrong strong threats. A form of a pokemon's "Forwarn" ability perhaps. [break]
✦ Zachary reaches the lift that would lead them down to the bottom of the prison-- where they had to go! Waves to his friends towards him, seeing the path to keep safe and get them there! [break]
✦ Toxic Chain ability - Stargazer : Grants Zachary a form of forwarn/precognition eyesight to show starry trails or auras that lead one towards their goals, or avoid dangerous situations. These starry trails resemble terastellar glows and overlap with the environment, and up to his intuition and interpretation to understand them.

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Zachary looked at the new pokemon, curious by them. They were both moth-like and while not the same, they still gave Zachary a bit of concern. ONe was more 'fluffy' than the others being as white as snow. The other one, glowing looking like it could be on fire, which made him a bit nervous. Zachary sat t here, still had his arms and legs tucked in as he observed them but kept his distance. "I'm sorry.. Just getting near them... they make my skin crawl, or they may start nibbling on me. I don't know..." he paused as he wished he didn't feel this way. [break][break] As he sat there-- he was unaware of the Crockanaw slinking closer from the river. The carnivorous water dweller was getting closer and closer, its jaws tempted to knaw on something-- till [break][break] "Swadloom!" The Swadloom spotted it. Coming to her trainer's aid, the little leaf bug threw a series of Razor Leafs at it. The Crockanaw saw this, startled as the swirl of leaves nipped at its scales. Startled, the little crocodile fled-- retreating back to the water. [break][break] Zachary was startled by this, seeing the Crockanaw try to take a bite out of him, and soon was surprised to see that Swadloon came to his rescue. [break][break] He was stunned knowing his bug pokemon, who he had shown reluctance to-- had saved him. [break][break] "Swadloon... I... Thank you." Zachary said, seeing as the little leaf bug waddle up to him. Hesitant but intending, Zachary reached out to try and pet the little bug. The Swadloon nuzzled Zachary's hand, grateful for the caress.[break][break] The fear melted a little to Zachary, realizing he was among a good Pokemon who cared, and wasn't trying to hurt him.[break][break]

Shalin Nariya

NOTES

✦Wild Duo with Shalin.[break]

✦ Passing on Both[break]

✦ All of Zachary's Pokemon are now out and around.

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The girl seemed very disassociate to the problem going on now. He didn't really know how to really try to get to know her too well. Perhaps he was just being a pain and getting in her way. She wasn't curious, or interested to what was getting Prophet so agitated. He cast his gaze away. It was clear she had other things on her mind snd things to do. [break][break] Zachary soon leaned down to his Xatu, clearly showing he was excited about something. Still despite how odd his Xatu was, he still trusted Prophet. He was one of his oldest and most dependable Pokemon. He trusted his wisdom and judgment. [break][break] "Well, I guess I can't help but feel that is that then. But I know that Prophet wouldn't bring it up if it wasn't important." Zachary said as he looked to the girl and her Luxray. "It was nice meeting you. I'm sorry if I bothered you. I hope maybe we will meet again. Take care," Zachary said. [break][break] He soon left, with Dizzy quick in toe. Prophet, eager to show Zachary what was wrong-- flew in the direction of the city, to show Zachary what he found. Perhaps that girl didn't mean what she said, but Zachary knew she wasn't likely to get involved. So it was best to leave. [break][break]

Eris Halla        

NOTES

✦ XXX[break]

✦XXX [break]

✦ XXX

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It was quite amazing how interconnected each roll in the league was. A gym Leader could become an Elite Four member. The sky seemed to be the limit of how far a person could go. He wanted to be a gym leader, loving the idea to help trainers grow as much as challenging them. Now he wondered if his dreams were more modest. Still, he felt an odd sense of confidence in knowing how the League's big shots really do support their Gym Leaders so much. Zachary couldn't contain the small smile on his face, feeling more assured. And now, he was excited to battle Josh to show what he could do. [break][break] They soon reached the battle arena, and Josh began to show his own pokemon. He soon lured out his female Pyroar that Zachary had once petted a few moments ago. He wasn't sure how he was going to battle that one as easily. The other one was a blue-colored Sylpheon. A rare Eevee evolution much like the Leafeon he had, but the different color was indeed rare. Zachary saw as it used its ribbon-like appendages to hug Josh, which was very, very sweet! [break][break]However, the final pokemon was not to Zachary's liking as a vicious buzz filled the air! He soon looked up and was in shock to see a GINORMOUS Beedrill of all things fly right next to Josh. It seemed stalwart and stoic in hits behavior but Josh had no problem going near it. [break][break] Zachary grew rigid at the sight of the giant Beedrill. Dizzy knew of Zachary's phobia and let out a breath. Using his stick, Dizzy poked Zachary, trying to get the boy to snap out of it. [break][break] Zachary shook his head, shaking the sensation of the Beedrill near him out of his head. In the end, HIS pokemon would be dealing with it-- but still, Zachary didn't like the idea of a Beedrill or other violent bugs that attacked. He rubbed his arm, as he fought to get over it. [break][break] Josh would clearly tell Zachary was uneased about something, but Zachary was trying his best to not let his fear rule him. Not now. Not when he wanted to show his worth to be a Gym Leader. If he fought other trainers as a Gym Leader, he was going to fight all kinds of Pokemon. Including bug types. [break][break] With a sharp breath, Zachary stood at the end of the arena. The arena was a massive grassy field, like one would imagine a football field, surrounding by a large track and a waterway, and further surrounded by bleachers. It was hard to imagine all this was indoors. It was a very wide grassy field, offering little cover but plenty of fighting room for his pokemon. [break][break] Given the choice of Pokemon his opponent, Josh now was going to choose, Zachary had a good idea of who he wanted. His best Pokemon he had on hand at the moment-- was Dizzy the Delphox, Happy, his Mime Jr, and Prophet the Xatu. All of them had advantages and disadvantages. His others were good too, but he needed to train them more. If he was going to show his best, he would use the pokemon he got earliest and grew the strongest. Zachary took out a Pokeball, marked with a Zero ensignia on it. [break][break] "I'm ready, " Zachary said as he took hold of his Pokeball for the first one. He drew his arm back. "I choose--" [break][break] Crak-pooooorr! [break][break] Unexpectedly, light shot out from his jacket pocket-- as one of his other pokeballs opened all on its own! Zachary looked stunned as the pokemon emerged from its light-- revealing to be a floating, yellow critter with spiky ears, narrow face, its claws tucked in as it seemed to slumber. "Aaaaaaaa.... braaaa...." Abra , named Tarot, purred as it sat there on its own volition without being called. [break][break] A stupefied look crossed Zachary's face as he held his pokeball mid-throw. Dizzy too look stupfied to see the disobedient Abra make a sudden appearance. [break][break] "T-TAROT!!" Zachary shouted, now angry that his Pokemon-- the most difficult one he met, decided to pop out without warning. [break][break] This was just humiliating as Zachary came here intending to prove his worth to his friend, show he could be a great Gym Leader-- and the most difficult Pokemon decided to hop right up to the front line without orders. "Tarot, I mean it. Now is NOT the time! Get back over here!" he shouted to the 'seemingly' sleeping pokemon. [break][break] The Abra just levitated there, seemingly uncaring or ignorant to his trainer's demand. [break][break] Zachary face-palmed himself, running his fingers through his hair to get over the shock. He looked to Josh on the opposing side of the battle. "I... don't suppose you'd let me take that move back?" Zachary asked sheepishly, his embarrassment clear by the red on his face. [break][break]

Josh Devlin

NOTES

✦ 3 on 3, single battle starting.[break]

✦ Zachary attempts to bring in his first Pokemon....[break]

✦ Zachary sele-- OOPS! A Wild Abra has appeared!.[break]

✦ Tarot the Abra takes the first spot in the battle.[break]

✦ Prompt to Josh: "There are no take-backs in my gym." ROFL. ROFL similar moment